Rumble in the political jungle

So they're calling it "The Rumble in the Air Conditioned Auditorium" and it could be the most entertaining political joust of the 2012 election cycle, (though last night's Presidential debate, and the two Brown/Warren clashes have certainly delivered some quality exchanges).

Jon Stewart taking on Bill O'Reilly. Comedy Central vs Fox News Channel. The Daily Show against the Factor. It will cost you $4.95 to watch the live-stream from George Washington University in D.C. The proceeds go to charity so dig some change out of the couch, or skip the grande pumpkin latte at Fivebucks, and pony up on Saturday night.

Sure, it's mostly for entertainment, but these two guys are no lightweights. They speak passionately about America from two very different perspectives, and they're not afraid to match wits with no safety net underneath. No, on Saturday night they'll only be able to rely on themselves and not their production staffs, to get their points across.

About three years ago I wrote a blog about Jon Stewart's inspired takedown of CNBC "Mad Money" host Jim Cramer. Stewart ripped into Cramer's Wall Street bloviating as the nation came to terms with the level of greed and incompetence in the financial markets. I asked the question, "Is Jon Stewart The Most Trusted Man in America?" At that moment I was pretty sure he was, and I'd argue that he's close to the top of the list today.

Still, he's considered the faux news host. The comedian. The jester in the news media throne room. In fairness, it's also a lot easier to operate from a comedy perspective, rather than carry the burden of "balance" (real or imagined).

Then there's Bill O'Reilly. "Poppa Bear" as Stephen Colbert would call him. Conservative stalwart of the Fox News ethos. A bare knuckle fighter, an unapologetic know-it-all, a beloved preacher to the converted. But was it always so?

I actually worked with O'Reilly back in the 80's, right here at WCVB. That's when he did a commentary for the 11:00 PM news. We were just colleagues, but when you work the same hours you tend to swap a few stories and experiences with the person desktop dining next to you. He was plenty opinionated back then, but he'd also listen to an opposing view. Now, he just chews on the points he doesn't agree with and spits them back out.

One night he forgot to bring a tie and sheepishly asked me if he could borrow mine. It was a moment of connection, just one guy helping another guy out. I miss that O'Reilly, and somehow I hope he does too.

Much of the fun taking in 'The Rumble" will be watching two polished media guys stepping out of their comfort zones. The playing field is level. Best answer wins. These two have pretty healthy egos, and will certainly bring their A games. Will anything happen that will have any kind of spillover into the presidential race? Extremely doubtful.

Might we get a glimpse beyond the on camera personas these two have carefully crafted? I sure hope so.